Presented at the ASHA-AMA 12th Annual Pre-Convention Session on School Health (Chicago, June 21, 1970), the paper discusses children who have a specific learning disability. Terminology is considered and specific learning disability defined. Attention is given to how the learning disabled child is different, the significance of statistical incidence figures, and the types and severity of learning disabilities. The role of the physician in this area is defined--early identification of potential learning disabilities, diagnosis and treatment of any medical conditions, and referral and consultation with appropriate educational and psychological services for treatment and evaluation of the learning disorder itself. The difficulties and inadequacies of medical examinations for physical causes are noted. (KW)